News Release

Canadian Coast Guard to assist with flood relief efforts

03 May 2018

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government is receiving assistance from the Canadian Coast Guard to help with flood relief efforts.

“It is clear that due to flooding there will be houses and families isolated. We will be managing a long and complex event, and we will need to support New Brunswickers in many ways,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “We are therefore taking steps to increase our capability for marine operations. We have requested assistance from the Canadian Coast Guard. They have granted our request and will help us reach out to those impacted.”

The New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization and the Canadian Coast Guard are working together to determine the details of the coast guard’s involvement.

“Our first priority is life-saving assistance,” said Gallant. “We will evacuate people who are unable to evacuate safely, and for those who remain behind, we will ensure that emergency medical service is available and that officials can support those impacted.”

Today, Gallant toured areas affected by flooding in the Saint John region.

The government continues to urge New Brunswickers whose road access is cut off or about to be cut off to evacuate until the water recedes.

“We are pleased to be able to help in any way we can with flood relief efforts,” said Dominic LeBlanc, federal Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. “The safety and security of New Brunswickers is a top priority for our federal government.”

Cooke Aquaculture also sent three boats and personnel today to help with flood relief efforts in the Grand Bay-Westfield and Kennebecasis Valley areas. Yesterday the company, which is based in Charlotte County, sent 10,000 sand bags.

“The three boats can hold up to 36 people and can be used to help move people from flooded areas or move goods and supplies to areas where flood waters have cut off access. They can also be used to quickly move emergency personnel or for other emergency response needs,” said Joel Richardson, vice-president of public relations, in a news release issued by the company today.

As elevated water levels continue to impact communities, residents are reminded that it is important to follow safety measures and instructions from officials, respect barricades, and avoid dangerous situations that may put the safety of themselves and others at risk.

Residents are asked to be patient over the days ahead as officials continue to monitor the situation and manage response operations. Residents are asked to check on neighbours who may require assistance.

River Watch program is a joint effort involving the Department of Environment and Local Government, New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization of the Department of Justice and Public Safety and NB Power. Other partners include watershed groups, and federal, provincial and state agencies involved in monitoring and forecasting the water flow in the province's rivers and streams.